The Surulere Federal House of Representatives Bye-Election is poised to be a pivotal event in the political landscape of the region. This constituency, historically considered a stronghold for the All Progressives Congress (APC), faces a critical juncture that requires astute strategic planning.

First and foremost, it's essential to acknowledge the fact that despite the popularity of Former Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila who’s now the Chief of Staff to Mr President, his victory in the last general election was by a margin considered surprisingly low despite having no LP candidate on the ballot. This indicates a shift in voter sentiment and emphasizes the need for the APC to reassess its approach. Gbajabiamila's victory, nonetheless, underscores the fact that the APC cannot afford complacency and must put forth a candidate who resonates deeply with the grassroots.

It is imperative that the party selects a candidate deeply rooted in the community, a figure who understands the local dynamics and is intimately familiar with the challenges faced by the constituents. This grassroots party member should be someone with a proven track record of community engagement, one who has demonstrated a genuine commitment to the welfare and progress of the people.

Fundamentally, the party must exercise caution in the candidate selection process. Imposing a candidate from the top-down could alienate the electorate and potentially result in a loss. It is crucial to let the people themselves have a say in determining the leader they want to represent them. This approach not only fosters a sense of ownership among the electorate but also ensures that the chosen candidate is someone the constituents can genuinely and freely relate to.

Accessibility and approachability are key factors that the APC must bear in mind. The people of Surulere desire a representative who is readily available for consultation, someone they can meet with without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles or protocols. This accessibility fosters a sense of trust and establishes a strong connection between the representative and the community.

ANALYZING THE MAJOR ASPIRANTS

1. Hon. Kabir Lawal (a.k.a Ceaser)- He’s a party man to the core. A two term member of the State House of Assembly between 2007- 2015. He’s a grassroot mobiliser who hails from ward G1 (Shitta), the ward with the has the highest number of voters in Surulere.

Challenges- he's seen to be of the old order and one of the regular names that's been around for a long time. Surulere people are yearning for a young, and new order. It might be a big minus to his aspirations.

2. Fuad kayode Laguda- A party man, Young and Former Personal Assistant to Former LIRS chairman, Mr Babatunde Fowler; He’s a Former Surulere APC LGA Chairman, and once an aspirant for Lagos State House of Assembly.

Challenges- He's perceived to be an imposed aspirant which has created divisions within the party circle, not seen to be a grassroot person, not approachable, not accessible, lacking in generosity, and too elitist.

3. JAMILA BOLANLE MUAZU OLUKOSI - A loyal party member, a woman of virtue, and three time Federal House of Representatives aspirant.

Challenges- Seen as one of the old order, not really a grassroot person. Doesn’t have a godfather

4. Raheem Owokoniran- a party man, Young, calm, Former Aide to the First Lady Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, Former SSA on Lands to Governor Sanwo-Olu and a Former House of Assembly aspirant.

Challenges- He's perceived not to be a grassroots Person, not accessible and above all his, younger brother, IDRIS AREGBE, has just been appointed into Lagos State cabinet as SA to the Governor on Tourism.

5. Mukaram Adedolapo Akorede- A loyal party man, Young and vibrant, a Former Personal Assistant and Special Assistant on Youth and Sports to the Executive chairman Surulere Local Government, two time Chairmanship Aspirant, a grassroots mobiliser also from ward G1 (Shitta). He's perceived to have strong relationship with old and young and other tribes within Surulere due to his involvement in Sports and other youth engagements.

Challenges- Does not have any known godfather.


Conclusively, the Surulere Federal House of Representatives Bye-Election presents a critical juncture for the APC. To secure victory, the party must field a candidate deeply embedded in the grassroots, avoid imposing candidates, and prioritize accessibility and relatability. By adhering to these principles, the APC can increase its chances of retaining the seat in this crucial election.

Khalid Oyedele Writes from Akinhami/Cole Ward E/E1, Surulere Federal Constituency, Lagos State, Nigeria

Source: naijinfo.com.